I'm overwhelmed to get a National Award for Awe, my first production: Nani

The Telugu film industry took home a rich haul at the National Awards 2019.

The experimental film, Awe, won the Best Makeup award and the award for Best Special Effects at the National Awards 2019, which were announced earlier today. Prashanth Varma, director of Awe, says, "It was accepted by all sections and was a commercial success too. Honestly, I was expecting an award in either Best Makeup Artist/Best Costume Designer/ Best Original Screenplay categories. You know life is full of surprises and it feels glad to get two National Awards for our film. I'm happy that our efforts were recognized by the jury members."

Actor Nani, who also doubled up as the producer of Awe, says, "We started a production house (Wall Poster Cinema) to encourage new talent and I'm really overwhelmed to get National Award for my very first film as a producer. This honour increases my sense of responsibility as a producer in giving people better films that stands out."

Keerthy Suresh bagged the Best Actress award for Mahanati, which was also awarded the Best Telugu film. "It is truly special and I'm delighted that the jury has liked our film. A lot of efforts were put in by our team for several months and I feel happy that our film has received its due recognition in the national award," says Mahanati director Nag Ashwin.

Mahanati also won Gaurang Shah a National Award for Best Costume Designer. "I dedicate this award to my team, weavers, and the entire Mahanati family. Collaborating with a film of this scale gave me an inspiring opportunity to showcase handwoven Indian saris with great pageantry, and simplicity, narrating the fashion sensibilities of the legendary actor Savitri," says Shah, thanking the makers of Mahanati for the opportunity.

"Over 100 artisans did six months of research and worked over a year weaving, texturing, and colouring to get the look of Savitri," says Shah, adding that the award for his debut will be an eternal treasure.